The passage of HB 56 would modify current statutes regarding lease negotiation and execution, particularly Section 166-11 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes. It would create more favorable conditions for small-scale farmers by providing them with longer-term security in their leases, which can enhance stability for their agricultural operations. The bill also stipulates that leases must be designated for agricultural purposes only and not needed by any state or county agency for other public uses, thereby prioritizing agricultural development on selected lands.
Summary
House Bill 56 aims to amend the provisions relating to agricultural park leases in Hawaii, specifically by allowing for the extension of leases for agricultural lands. The bill proposes that the Department of Agriculture may extend the lease of any lessee who holds a lease with a remaining term of fifteen years or less, provided certain conditions are met including that the land is twenty-five acres or less and located in a county with a population of less than five hundred thousand. This change is intended to support small agriculture operations potentially at risk of losing their leases due to short remaining terms.
Contention
One notable point of contention surrounding the bill may stem from the criteria established for lease extension, particularly the stipulation regarding county population sizes and the size of the land leased. Supporters argue that these conditions help target assistance to smaller farmers, ensuring that agricultural land is utilized efficiently. However, critics might raise concerns about the limitations imposed by these thresholds, fearing that it may disadvantage farmers operating in larger counties or those managing larger parcels of agricultural land who might also need similar lease stability.